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Permanent mechanical circulatory support with an implantable left ventricular assist device
P M McCarthy1, J B Young, N G Smedira
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195, USA. mccartp@cesmtp.ccf.org
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|May 1, 1997
Summary
A 67-year-old man with end-stage ischemic cardiomyopathy received a HeartMate Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD). Five months post-operation, he improved to New York Heart Association functional class II.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Devices
- Heart Failure Management
Background:
- Patient presented with end-stage ischemic cardiomyopathy.
- History of two prior coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgeries.
- Previous left ventricular aneurysmectomy performed.
Observation:
- Underwent implantation of a vented-electric HeartMate Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD).
- LVAD insertion was pursued as an alternative to cardiac transplantation.
- Discharged from hospital 13 days following the procedure.
Findings:
- Postoperative recovery demonstrated significant functional improvement.
- Achieved New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class II at 5 months.
- Successful management of advanced heart failure with mechanical circulatory support.
Implications:
- Vented-electric HeartMate LVAD can be a viable option for patients ineligible for heart transplantation.
- Mechanical circulatory support can lead to substantial functional class improvement in end-stage heart failure.
- Demonstrates the potential for LVADs to improve quality of life and functional capacity in complex cardiac patients.